Weighing more than two tons and with the personality of a golden retriever, Sudan was the last known male northern white rhino on the world. His remarkable story moved the hearts of everyone, and he was a perfect ambassador for his species.

With the aim of conserving a species being decimated in the wild by civil wars and poaching, Sudan was captured in the 1970s, and translocated from Sudan to Dvur Kralove Zoo in Czechia. Despite concerted efforts, few northern white rhinos were born in captivity, and it was feared the environmental conditions in Czechia were inhibiting reproductive success. In 2009 the species was officially declared extinct in the wild, and Sudan, alongside three other northern whites – Suni, Najin and Fatu – were translocated from Dvur Kalove to Ol Pejeta. It was hoped they would be stimulated by their ancestral habitat, and their offspring would repopulate Africa. Sadly, Suni passed away in 2014, and despite all efforts, no further offspring had been produced. This left just Sudan and his daughter Najin and granddaughter Fatu.

Led by Caregiver James Mwenda, Sudan was protected 24/7 by armed guards in a special enclosure and received world-class veterinary care. He was loved by all, described as incredibly approachable, very tolerant and patient of humans.

On the 19th of March 2018, Sudan passed away. He had been suffering from age-related health issues and from a series of infections. Once his condition worsened significantly and he was unable to stand up and evidently suffered a great deal, the decision to euthanize him was made by his veterinary team.